Carpe Diem in Your 50s: Why I Spent the College Fund to See Europe (and Regret Absolutely Nothing)

Last year, I did something completely reckless. Or at least, that’s what the guilt in the back of my mind kept whispering.

I took my youngest son to Europe. We chased the seasons across the continent, experiencing the bloom of spring, the crisp air of autumn, and the quiet magic of early winter in various medieval towns and breathtaking landscapes. We consciously skipped the peak of summer—because let’s be honest, nobody wants hot, crowded, and overpriced travel.

As a mom navigating the world of neurodiversity, routines, and endless advocacy, breaking away for a long trip felt like an impossible mountain to climb. But the opportunity finally presented itself, and we went all out.

Yet, as we were standing there admiring centuries-old castles, a wave of mom-guilt crept in. I looked around and saw the typical demographics of long-term travelers: retirees, older couples, and empty nesters. And here I was, walking around with a 5th grader.

Was I being irresponsible? Should this money have been locked away in a college fund instead? Should I have waited until my kids were completely out of school to see the world?

The truth? In my heart, I didn’t feel remorse. And strangely, that made me feel more guilty. I kept telling myself things that I knew to be true from a lifetime of grit and hardship:

This year, I grounded myself. My kids are entering middle and high school, which means a whirlwind of preparation, endless IEP meetings, and adjusting schedules. Plus, I am channeling my lifelong passion into launching my very own travel business.

Then, the unimaginable happened.

Out of nowhere, I started limping. I hadn’t run a marathon. I hadn't jumped, danced, or injured myself. I was just... limping. I didn't even know what to search for on Google. When I confided in a friend, she introduced me to a term I had never heard before: Plantar Fasciitis.

What an odd name for something that completely halts your mobility. As I researched it, the reality hit me like a ton of bricks. I am in my early 50s and navigating perimenopause. Even though I’m only slightly overweight, I completely underestimated the sheer magnitude of how hormone shifts and aging can impact your joints, muscles, and feet.

And just like that? Every single ounce of my travel guilt vanished.

Looking at my stiff, painful heel today, I don't feel regret about last year. I feel overwhelming gratitude. I cherish the fact that just twelve months ago, I was fit and strong enough to walk for miles, explore cobblestone streets, and climb all the way up the Eiffel Tower with my boy.

What a difference a single year can make in a woman's life.

Our bodies change, our schedules tighten, and our children grow up in the blink of an eye. If you are sitting on the fence, waiting for the "perfect, responsible time" to live your life, this is your sign. If you get the calling, carpe diem. Seize the day, trust your grit, and let the universe take care of the rest.